Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Introduction

Strawberry shortcake is a classic dessert perfect for showcasing fresh, juicy strawberries. This recipe combines tender, buttery shortcakes with sweet macerated berries and fluffy whipped cream for a truly delightful treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2/3 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pound fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for strawberries)
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the strawberries by mixing the sliced berries with 1/4 cup granulated sugar in a bowl. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes to release their juices.
2. Step 2: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Step 3: Stir in the milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract just until combined. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently pat into a 1-inch thick round.
4. Step 4: Cut the dough into circles or squares and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shortcakes are golden brown. Allow them to cool completely.
5. Step 5: While the shortcakes cool, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until soft peaks form to create the whipped cream.
6. Step 6: To assemble, slice each shortcake in half horizontally. Spoon the macerated strawberries over the bottom half, add a generous dollop of whipped cream, and then place the top half on. Garnish with extra strawberries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use chilled butter and handle the dough gently to keep your shortcakes tender and flaky.
• For a twist, try adding a splash of lemon juice to the strawberries for extra brightness.
• Swap whole milk for buttermilk for a richer flavor and softer texture in the shortcakes.
• To make whipped cream more stable, add a teaspoon of cream cheese while whipping.

Storage

Store any leftover shortcakes and strawberries separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Whipped cream is best prepared fresh but can be stored for a few hours in the fridge. To reheat shortcakes, warm them briefly in a low oven to restore freshness before assembling.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?

Frozen strawberries can be used but may release more juice and become softer. Thaw them slowly and drain excess liquid before macerating with sugar.

How do I prevent the shortcakes from being dry?

Make sure to use cold butter and avoid overworking the dough. Also, serve the shortcakes with plenty of the strawberry juice and whipped cream to keep them moist and flavorful.

Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 56 reviews

This classic Strawberry Shortcake recipe features buttery, tender shortcakes paired with sweet, macerated strawberries and fluffy homemade whipped cream. Perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla and just the right amount of sweetness, this dessert is a timeless treat for any occasion.

• Author: Grace
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shortcakes

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2/3 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Strawberries

• 1 pound fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for strawberries)

Whipped Cream

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Strawberries: In a bowl, combine the sliced fresh strawberries with 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their natural juices, creating a sweet, flavorful syrup.
2. Make the Shortcakes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in the cold, cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the whole milk and vanilla extract just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
3. Bake the Shortcakes: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently pat it into a 1-inch thick round. Using a biscuit cutter or a knife, cut the dough into circles or squares as desired. Place the pieces onto a baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the shortcakes are golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
4. Prepare Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip; the cream should be light and fluffy.
5. Assemble the Shortcakes: Slice the cooled shortcakes in half horizontally. Spoon a generous amount of macerated strawberries with their syrup over the bottom half, then dollop with the freshly whipped cream. Top with the other half of the shortcake.
6. Serve & Enjoy: Optionally, garnish with additional fresh strawberries and a light dusting of powdered sugar. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

• You can chill the dough before baking for a slightly flakier texture.
• For an extra burst of flavor, add a tablespoon of lemon zest to the strawberries while macerating.
• Use cold butter and milk to ensure tender shortcakes.
• Freshly whipped cream is best served immediately to maintain its texture.
• Shortcakes can be stored airtight at room temperature for up to 2 days but are best fresh.

Keywords: Strawberry shortcake, fresh strawberries, whipped cream dessert, classic shortcake, summer dessert, berry shortcake